Addressing officials, caregivers and stakeholders, Dr. Virendra Kumar described parents as a child’s “first and most powerful therapists.” He emphasised that empowering families with knowledge, skills and emotional support is essential to ensuring that no child with developmental delay is left behind. According to the Minister, early childhood intervention must be viewed not merely as a welfare service but as a national responsibility.
Highlighting the scientific significance of the first six years of life, Dr. Kumar noted that this period plays a decisive role in brain development, learning ability, social integration and long-term health outcomes. He stated that early identification and timely intervention can dramatically improve the quality of life and independence of children with special needs.
Model Centre for Early Intervention
Directing officials to develop the Noida CDEIC into a model centre of excellence, the Minister stressed that quality should be reflected not only in infrastructure but also in professional expertise, advanced technology and evidence-based therapeutic practices. He instructed the centre to introduce structured caregiver training programmes with proper certification, enabling parents to actively participate in their child’s developmental journey.
The Minister further reiterated that collaboration between professionals, institutions and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) is critical to building an effective early intervention ecosystem across the country.
Growing Network of CDEICs
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Secretary, DEPwD, Smt. Manmeet Kaur Nanda highlighted the steady expansion of Cross Disability Early Intervention Centres nationwide. She informed that the Noida centre is the 28th CDEIC established under the Department, reflecting the Ministry’s sustained focus on early identification and inclusive support services.
She encouraged the NIEPID team to deliver high-quality, child-centric and family-oriented services, assuring continued policy and institutional support from the Department.
Comprehensive Services Under One Roof
The newly inaugurated CDEIC at Noida is designed to provide holistic, multi-disciplinary services for children in the critical 0–6 years age group. Facilities at the centre include occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, medical consultation, special education, family counselling and school-readiness interventions.
With modern infrastructure and trained professionals, the centre is expected to serve a large population of children from Noida and neighbouring regions, significantly reducing delays in diagnosis and therapy.
Engaging Community and Celebrating Ability
During the visit, the Union Minister and accompanying dignitaries toured various facilities at the NIEPID Regional Centre, including the Model Special Education Centre, the Model Inclusive Primary School, the Mobile Therapy Bus and PMDK facilities. The programme also featured cultural performances by children with special needs, reflecting their creativity and confidence.
Assistive aids, appliances and NIEPID DISHA curriculum materials were distributed to beneficiaries, reinforcing the government’s emphasis on inclusive education and functional independence.
Symbolic Commitment to Growth
The event concluded with a tree plantation drive led by the Union Minister and senior officials, symbolising growth, sustainability and a collective commitment to nurturing every child’s potential. The inauguration of the Noida CDEIC marks another significant milestone in India’s journey towards an inclusive and compassionate society.